Rapid fire launch system

ABSTRACT

A magazine-fed launch or firing system is provided. The system comprises a plurality of magazines arranged radially around a central loading area. A first loading mechanism is provided for supplying a munition arranged within a magazine to the central loading area. A second loading mechanism is provided for delivering a munition arranged within the central loading area to a barrel of the system. A turret is provided for altering at least one of the azimuth and elevation angle of the barrel.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to munitions launching systems, and more particularly to open-breech launch systems capable of storing and rapidly firing multiple types of munitions.

BACKGROUND

Magazine-fed weapons and launch systems are useful for providing efficient storage, transportation, and rapid delivery of munitions to their firing mechanisms. Magazines and their associated positioning and loading devices should be operative to engage a weapon in a continuous fashion, preferably being able to deliver munitions at a rate meeting or exceeding the maximum firing rate of the weapon. Moreover, control over the munitions both in storage within the magazine, as well as during delivery to the weapon, is important to ensure the munition is not damaged, in addition to aiding precise firing control and avoiding misfires.

It would also be advantageous to have a weapon system with the ability to store and supply multiple types of munitions to the same barrel or launch tube. In this way, a single system may be used to perform a wide variety of operational purposes, without time consuming and expensive reloading procedures.

SUMMARY

In one embodiment of the present invention, a system for firing munitions is provided. The system comprises a plurality of magazines arranged radially around a central loading area. A first loading mechanism is provided for supplying a munition arranged within the magazine to the central loading area. A second loading mechanism is provided for delivering a munition arranged within the central loading area to a barrel of the system. A turret is provided for altering at least one of the azimuth and elevation angle of the barrel.

In a second embodiment of the present invention, a magazine for storing munitions is provided. The magazine comprises a first end having a first opening configured to receive a munition, a second end having a second opening, and a motorized pusher round operative to displace a munition arranged within the magazine from the first end toward the second end.

A third embodiment of the present invention provides a munition loading device for a magazine-fed launch system. The device comprises first and second capturing mechanisms. The second capturing mechanism is pivotally attached to the first capturing mechanism and responsive to at least one linear actuator to secure a munition between the first and second capturing mechanisms.

A forth embodiment of the present invention includes a munitions loading device for an open-breech launch system. The device comprises a engaging mechanism configured to selectively fasten to a portion of a munition. The mechanism comprising a locking surface for mating with a complementary locking assembly of a munition, and a drive assembly configured to displace the engaging mechanism between a first position for fastening to a munition, and a second position for positioning the munition within a barrel of a launch system.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a launch system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a top view of an exemplary magazine arrangement of the system of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the magazine arrangement of the system of FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a magazine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5A is a top view of a magazine according to an embodiment of the present invention in a first position.

FIG. 5B is a top view of the magazine of FIG. 5A in a second position.

FIG. 5C is a top view of the magazine of FIG. 5A in a third position.

FIG. 5D is a top view of the magazine of FIG. 5A in a fourth position.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a magazine and pusher round according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 7A and 7B are perspective views of a loading mechanism for use in a launch system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8A is a cross-sectional view of the loading mechanism and a munition in a first position.

FIG. 8B is a cross-sectional view of the loading mechanism and a munition in a second position.

FIG. 8C is a cross-sectional view of the loading mechanism and a munition in a third position.

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a munition arranged within a barrel according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10A is a partial cross-sectional view of a munition secured within a barrel according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10B is a perspective view of the munition of FIG. 10A in a locked position.

FIG. 11A is a partial cross-sectional view of a munition moveably arranged within a barrel according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11B is a perspective view of the munition of FIG. 11A in an unlocked position.

FIG. 12A is a perspective view of a turret in a first position for use with a launch system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12B is a perspective view of a turret in a second position for use with a launch system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a detailed view of a turret for use with a launch system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14A is a top view of a turret for use with a launch system according to an embodiment of the present invention in a first position.

FIG. 14B is a top view of a turret for use with a launch system according to an embodiment of the present invention in a second position.

FIG. 15 is a flow diagram of a firing process according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16A is a partial top view of a magazine of an embodiment of the present invention useful for describing the firing process of FIG. 15.

FIG. 16B is a partial side view of a barrel and munition useful for describing the firing process of FIG. 15.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

It is to be understood that the figures and descriptions of the present invention have been simplified to illustrate elements that are relevant for a clear understanding of the present invention, while eliminating, for purposes of clarity, many other elements found in typical magazine-fed launch systems. However, because such elements are well known in the art, and because they do not facilitate a better understanding of the present invention, a discussion of such elements is not provided herein. The disclosure herein is directed to all such variations and modifications known to those skilled in the art.

In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that show, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. It is to be understood that the various embodiments of the invention, although different, are not necessarily mutually exclusive. Furthermore, a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described herein in connection with one embodiment may be implemented within other embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, it is to be understood that the location or arrangement of individual elements within each disclosed embodiment may be modified without departing from the scope of the invention. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined only by the appended claims, appropriately interpreted, along with the full range of equivalents to which the claims are entitled. In the drawings, like numerals refer to the same or similar functionality throughout several views.

Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a launch system capable of rapid delivery of a plurality of types of munitions to a single open-breech launch tube or barrel. A plurality of magazines, each capable of storing a different type of munition, may be arranged around a common loading area in communication with a barrel. A munitions delivery system is configured to securely and continuously deliver munitions from one of the magazines, to the common loading area, and subsequently to the barrel. Once arranged within the barrel, the munition may be secured therein until the firing operation. The barrel or launch tube may be housed in a turret configured to alter the azimuth and elevation angle of the barrel once the munition is loaded.

Referring generally to FIG. 1, an exemplary launch system 10 is shown. Launch system 10 may be configured for use on, for example, ships and other sea vessels, in permanent or temporary ground installations, or scaled to be mounted on smaller mobile vehicles. Exemplary system 10 includes a turret 20 which may house at least one launch tube or barrel. A magazine system 30 may include a plurality of clips or magazines 31 arranged on a base portion 22. Each of magazines 31 may be adapted to store and deliver a munition of a different type to shared loading and firing mechanisms.

Magazine system 30 according to embodiments of the present invention is shown and described with respect to FIGS. 2-6. Referring generally to FIGS. 2 and 3, magazine system 30 may include a plurality of magazines 31 arranged radially about a common central axis A (one magazine is detailed in FIG. 2, the remaining magazines shown in shadow). By way of example only, magazine system 30 may comprise five magazines 31, however, any number of magazines may be utilized. It is further envisioned that multiple magazine systems may be arranged vertically on top of one another (i.e. stacked). In this way, for example, two or more magazine systems 30 may be utilized for providing at least ten total magazines 31. Each magazine 31 may be configured to store a plurality of munitions 32. In one embodiment, each magazine 31 may be configured to store and deliver a different type of munition to a common firing mechanism. It should be understood, however, that magazines 31 may be provided the same type of munitions without departing from the scope of the present invention.

In one embodiment of the present invention, each magazine 31 comprises a generally curved housing 35. This shape allows each magazine 31 to store additional munitions 32 relative to a magazine having a non-curved housing. In this way, for a magazine system having a given size (i.e. diameter), the curved configuration of magazines 31 may provide more efficient use of available space, thereby maximizing the number of munitions 32 storable by the system 30. While curved magazines 31 are shown, it is envisioned that the magazines may take on any shape, including a non-curved configuration. Moreover, it is envisioned that munitions 32 arranged within each magazine 31 may be stored in alternative arrangements beyond the generally adjacent configuration shown in the figures without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Still referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, a shared loading area 33 is provided, wherein munitions 32 housed in each magazine 31 are fed. Loading area 33 may be arranged generally centrally with respect to the radial arrangement of magazines 31. As will be set forth in greater detail below, in one embodiment of the present invention, munitions 32 supplied from magazines 31 to shared loading area 33 may be subsequently supplied to a shared launch tube or barrel of the system 10 during loading and firing sequences.

Referring generally to FIGS. 3 and 4, each magazine 31 generally comprises a window 34 for the loading (e.g. insertion) of munitions 32 into magazine housing 35. In one embodiment, magazine housing 35 includes upper and lower housing ends 36,37 between which munitions 32 are arranged in a linear fashion (FIG. 2). An extending arm 38 may be provided, operative to deliver munitions 32 from an end of magazine 31 opposite window 34 to shared loading area 33 (FIG. 4).

As shown in FIG. 4, extending arm 38 may comprise at least one actuator 39. Actuator 39 may be configured as a linear actuator, by way of example only. Actuator 39 may be a hydraulic actuator, pneumatic, electric, or any other type of actuator capable of operating extending arm 38 in a suitable manner. In one embodiment of the present invention, two actuators 39 are provided. A first end of each actuator 39 may be attached to, for example, a respective bell crank 40 to control the selective capturing of a munition 32 between a first capturing portion 41 and a second capturing portion 42. In the illustrated embodiment, first capturing portion 41 may be pivotally attached to second capturing portion 42. A second end of each actuator 39 may be attached to, for example, a portion of housing 35, or a portion of a support structure for the system 10 (not shown).

Actuator 39 is operative to close second capturing portion 42 around munition 32, securing it between first and second capturing portions 41,42. As will be set forth in greater detail with respect to FIGS. 5A-5E, actuator 39 may be operative to withdrawal munition 32 from an end of magazine 31, and deliver it to shared loading area 33 for firing by system 10.

Referring generally to FIGS. 5A-5E, an exemplary operation of the capture and delivery of munitions 32 from magazine 31 to shared loading area 33 will be described. In reference to FIG. 5A, extending arm 38 is shown in a retracted position. A mechanical stop 48 may be provided to prevent the forward motion of munitions 32 with magazine 31. Stop 48 may be biased, or otherwise mechanically actuated between a first or closed position as shown in FIG. 5A, and a second, or open position shown in FIG. 5B. For example, stop 48 may be controlled by electromechanical, pneumatic or hydraulic actuators, ensuring sufficient resistance is generated to secure munitions 32 within magazine 31. In the illustrated embodiment, retraction of actuator 39 applies a force on the bell crank 40, causing its counter-clockwise rotation relative to pivot point 43. This rotation translates second capturing portion 42 into a first, or open, position. In this open position, munition 32 may be moved toward the end of the magazine 31 by, for example, a pusher round 50 operative to displace munition 32 passed the biased stop 48. In another embodiment, stop 48 may be mechanically rotated into an open position, allowing munition 32 to pass into contact with first capturing portion 41, as shown in FIG. 5B.

With reference to FIG. 5C, munition 32 is secured between capturing portions 41,42. In the exemplary embodiment, the extending motion of actuator 39 rotates bell crank 40 clockwise, which in turn rotates second capturing portion 42 into a second, or closed position, securing munition 32 between first capturing portion 41 and second capturing portion 42. Stop 48 may return to a closed position to prevent the movement of the remaining munitions 32 within magazine 31.

Once secured, munition 32 may be delivered to shared loading area 33. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5D, further extension of actuator 39 is operative to displace munition 32, retained between capturing portions 41,42, into shared loading area 33 (see also FIG. 2). Referring to FIG. 5E, extending arm 38 may remain in an extended position until munition 32 is delivered to the firing system (e.g. lifted into the barrel). In this way, extending arm 38 ensures munition 32 is adequately supported through the loading process of the weapon. Once munition 32 is loaded, extending arm 38 may return to the fully retracted position shown in FIG. 5A, and the above-described delivery cycle may be repeated for successive firings from any of magazines 31.

As set forth above, pusher round 50 may be used to urge munitions 32 through magazine 31, as well as to supply pressure, for example a constant pre-load, on munitions 32, securing them within the magazine during non-use. Referring generally to FIG. 6, a pusher round 50 according to one embodiment of the present invention may be arranged between upper and lower housing ends 36,37 of magazine 31. Pusher round 50 may comprise a motor 51 operable to drive a shaft 52. In one embodiment, motor 51 is arranged internally within round 50, providing a compact design.

Shaft 52 may comprise a pinion gear 53 on at least one end thereof. In the illustrated embodiment, shaft 52 comprises pinion gears 53 arranged on both ends thereof. Shaft 52 may be supported and/or guided through magazine housing 35 by bushings or bearings 54 located on either or both ends thereof. In one embodiment, bushing 54 may comprise two generally continuous low-friction surfaces arranged on either side of a guide track 55 located in upper and/or lower magazine housings 36,37. In another embodiment, shaft 52 may have a bushing fitted on respective ends thereof configured to reduce friction between shaft 52 and the walls of guide track 55.

Pinion gears 53 may be configured to engage with a geared rack 56 arranged on a surface of upper and/or lower housings 36,37. In this way, rotation of motor 51 is operative to drive pusher round 50 through guide track 55 and thus through magazine 31 by the interaction between pinions 53 and geared rack 56.

While a rack and pinion type arrangement is shown and described, it is further envisioned that a drive system having a similar function may be implemented without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, a belt drive, gearless drive-rollers, or other suitable arrangements operative to displace pusher round 50 within magazine housing 35 may be used.

Pusher round 50 may also comprise a pressure sensor 57, such as a strain gauge, arranged thereon. A processor controller (not shown) may be operatively coupled to sensor 57. In an exemplary embodiment, pressure sensor 57 is provided on a face of round 50 abutting an adjacent munition 32. In this way, pressure sensor 57 may be operative to sense the presence of an adjacent munition 32, and in conjunction with the controller, monitor the munitions' progress through magazine housing 35. Further, sensor 57 may be operative to detect a malfunction of magazine 31. For example, an unexpected rise in force detected by sensor 57 may indicate a jammed munition 32 within housing 35 impeding the proper operation of magazine 31. Likewise, an increase in pressure may indicate a problem with extending arm 38 or the loading mechanism (described below). The controller may be configured to receiver the sensor output and perform corrective measures to ameliorate the condition.

As set forth above, pusher round 50 is operative to move munitions 32 through magazine 31 during a loading/firing sequence. To facilitate this function, munitions 32 may be slideably arranged between housing portions 36,37, or may be supported on bushings, bearings, or a low-friction surface 59, allowing munitions 32 to move freely through housing 35. Anti-rotation surfaces 47 may be arranged on housing portions 36,37 to prevent the rotation of pusher round 50 as it moves though the housing 35.

Pusher round 50 may also move in the reverse direction, by reversal of drive motor 51. For example, during a reload procedure, wherein there is room in magazine 31 for at least one additional munition 32, pusher round 50 is operative to return to a position at the rear of magazine 31. This position is behind loading window 34, allowing for the insertion of additional munitions 32 into magazine 31.

Launch system 10 may further comprise a loading mechanism operative to deliver munitions to at least one barrel or launch tube of the system. Referring generally to FIGS. 7A and 7B, an extendable loading mechanism 60 may be arranged within or below shared loading area 33. In one embodiment of the present invention, loading mechanism 60 may comprise an arm 61 on which a coupling device 62 is moveably arranged. Coupling device 62 may comprise a motor-driven arrangement using, for example, a linear induction motor 63 operative to move coupling device 62 between a load position (shown in phantom in FIG. 7A) and a delivery position along arm 61. In alternative embodiments, coupling device 62 may be raised and/or lowered by any number of suitable mechanical arrangements including, but not limited to, linear actuators, gear-driven arrangements, or belt/chain drives without departing from the scope of the present invention.

In the load position, coupling device 62 may be configured to engage with a portion of a munition, by way of example only, a bottom portion. An exemplary embodiment is shown in FIGS. 8A-8C. Specifically, coupling device 62 may be arranged generally beneath munition 32 held within shared array 33 by extending arm 38 (FIG. 5D).

Munition 32 may comprise an opening 63 for receiving an engaging portion 64 of coupling device 62. A bottom portion of munition 32 may also comprise a locking mechanism 65, configured to secure munition 32 to engaging portion 64. Locking mechanism 65 may comprise, by way of non-limiting example only, at least one moveable element arranged radially around opening 63. Locking mechanism 65 may be biased radially inward toward opening 63 by, for example, a mechanical spring, or pneumatic or hydraulic pressure. A munition plug 66 may be arranged within opening 63, and operative to ensure locking mechanism 65 remains held in an unlocked position (i.e. outwardly biased) to facilitate the insertion of engaging portion 64.

As shown in FIG. 8B, coupling device 62 may be extended vertically toward corresponding opening 63 in the bottom of munition 32. As engaging portion 64 of coupling device 62 extends into opening 63, it may contact plug 66, urging it past locking mechanism 65. Engaging portion 64 may comprise a recessed profile 67 oriented such that once engaging portion 64 extends past locking mechanism 65, locking mechanism 65 is operative to engage with recessed portion 67 under the force of the mechanism's inward bias. In this way, locking mechanism 65 is operative to restrain munition 32 with respect to coupling device 62.

Once restrained by locking mechanism 65, the loading mechanism 60 continues to extend vertically upward, providing munition 32 to the barrel of the launch system, as set forth in detail with respect to FIGS. 9-11B. In one embodiment of the present invention, extending arm 38 (FIGS. 5D and 5E) may remain extended, supporting munition 32 laterally as it is raised into the barrel by loading mechanism 60. FIG. 5E shows the extending arm remaining in a supportive position while the munition is being delivered to the barrel via the loading arm. In another embodiment of the present invention, once munition 32 is secured to loading mechanism 60, the extending arm may be retracted.

Once munition 32 is received by the barrel, loading mechanism 60 may be removed from munition 32. Referring to FIG. 8C, in one embodiment of the present invention, loading mechanism 60 includes a collar 70. Collar 70 may be moveable with respect to a portion of coupling device 62 and slideable arranged around engaging portion 64. In one embodiment, collar 70 is threadedly engaged with the outer portion of coupling device 62 or with engaging portion 64. Removal of engaging portion 64 from the munition may be accomplished by moving (e.g. threading) collar 70 from a first position, shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, to a second position shown in FIG. 8C. In particular, collar 70 may be threaded upwards by, for example, a screw drive motor 71 (FIG. 7B) arranged on coupling device 62. Collar 70 is continually threaded with respect to the outer portion or engaging portion 64 so as to extend into opening 63 of munition 32, and into contact with locking mechanism 65, urging it radially outward and out of a locking position with recessed portion 67 of engaging portion 64. In this way, engaging portion 64 will be free to retract from munition 32, and return to the load position shown in FIG. 7A.

In one embodiment of the present invention loading mechanism 60 may be arranged on a rotatable platform. In this way it may be rotated into position with a desired magazine 31. Specifically, as each magazine 31 may contain a different munition type, loading mechanism 60 may rotate to the magazine 31 containing the munition-type desired for a particular operation. In another embodiment of the present invention, loading mechanism 60 may be configured to engage with munitions 32 from each of magazines 31 without the need to rotate. In yet another embodiment, loading mechanism 60 may be fixed relative to a rotatable base 22 and operative to rotate magazines 31 with respect to the loading mechanism 60.

Referring generally to FIGS. 9-11B, the engagement between a munition and a barrel or launch tube of the launch system is described. As set forth above, loading mechanism 60 is operative to provide munition 32 to a barrel 80. Once positioned within barrel 80, a second locking mechanism 81 or a plurality thereof may be provided. Second locking mechanism 81 may comprise a biased retaining means, such as a spring loaded, or pneumatically or hydraulically biased elements operative to engage with a recessed portion 83 of munition 32. Specifically, once an outer surface 82 of munition 32 is elevated past this second locking mechanism 81, it may extend into recessed portion 83, or into a space behind an end of munition 32. Once locked, movement of munition 32 in the downward vertical direction within barrel 80 (as shown in FIG. 9) may be arrested.

In order to prevent vertically upward and/or lateral movement of munition within barrel 80, an additional restraint device, for example, an electromagnetic (EM) restraint collar 90 may be provided. In one embodiment of the present invention, EM collar 90 is arranged around a perimeter of munition 32, and is operative to either expand or contract when exposed to an electromagnetic field.

Referring generally to FIGS. 10A-11B, an embodiment of EM collar 90 of the present invention is shown in more detail. FIGS. 10A and 10B show EM collar 90 in a locked position. In one embodiment, once munition 32 has been positioned within barrel 80 and secured by second locking mechanism 81, expanded collar 90 may engage with a recessed portion 92 formed on the inner barrel wall. In this way, munition 32 is restrained against movement in the upward vertical direction. FIG. 11A shows munition 32 in the unlocked position, wherein an electromagnetic field has been generated, and collar 90 has retracted radially inward, freeing munition 32 for motion in the vertical direction. The electromagnetic field may be provided by, for example, a coil or a plurality of coils 88 arranged proximate collar 90 when munition 32 is in its ready-fire position.

While the embodiments of FIGS. 10A-11B show collar 90 arranged on munition 32, it is envisioned that a similar collar may be arranged on an inner surface of barrel 80, and operate to expand into securing contact with munition 32.

In one embodiment of the present invention, activation of coils 88 for example, applying a current thereto, generates an EM field operative to collapse collar 90 when munition 32 is fired. Collar 90 is configured to collapse to a diameter of sufficiently narrow dimensions to allow collar 90 to clear recess 92, and thus allow the munition to travel out of the barrel when fired. In this embodiment, a plurality of coils 88 may be arranged along the length of barrel 80, ensuring collar 90 remains collapsed as munition 32 travels vertically upward during firing. In alternate embodiment of the present invention, collar 90 may be in an unlocked state in the absence of a field, and a locked state in the presence of a field without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Referring generally to FIGS. 12A and 12B, an exemplary turret 100 is provided for use with the magazine and loading system described with respect to the proceeding figures. Turret 100 may comprise at least one barrel or launch tube 80 arranged on a base 112. Barrel 80 may be in communication with shared area 33, such that the above-described loading mechanism 60 and magazine system 30 are operative to deliver munitions 32 to barrel 80 in the described manner. In one embodiment of the present invention, barrel 80 may be moveable in both elevation and azimuth angle.

Elevation angle control may be achieved by pivotally mounting barrel 80 to a support member 120 arranged on base 112. In one embodiment of the present invention, barrel 80 may be pivotally mounted at its center of gravity, thereby reducing forces on the systems used to alter its elevation angle. Elevation angle control of barrel 80 with respect to base 112 may be achieved using a motorized arrangement. Specifically, at least one elevation drive motor 114 may be provided, and operative to power a drive gear 118 via a pinion 121 (FIG. 14) attached to the output shaft of motor 114. Drive gear 118 may be rotatably attached to a sliding support 122, and operative to drive an external geared or toothed rack 124 attached to barrel 80. In this way, a rack and pinion arrangement is provided. In the illustrated embodiment, drive gear 118 comprises first and second geared portions 126,127 (FIG. 14) arranged on opposing ends of a common shaft 128. Each geared portion 126,127 may be operative to engage with corresponding portions of toothed rack 124 on either side of barrel 80. A portion of toothed rack 124 may comprise a smooth, or non-toothed profile operative to slide on a corresponding surface of sliding support structure 112. In this way, toothed portions 126, 127 may operate in conjunction with sliding support structure 112 to provide load-bearing support to barrel 80 as it is rotated through a range of elevation angles by motor 114. Barrel 80 may be operative to pivot between a first, or generally vertical position (FIG. 12A), and a second position (FIG. 12B). In an alternate embodiment of the present invention, support structure 112 may be altered (i.e. its profile extended) such that barrel 80 may be pivoted in either direction with respect to the vertical position, thus achieving as much as 180 degrees of elevation angle coverage with respect to the base. Drive motor 114 may comprise, for example, a built-in or an external brake configured to prevent unwanted rotation of the barrel.

While a gear-driven elevation angle control arrangement is shown and described, it is envisioned that the system of the present invention may comprise any number of additional elevation angle control arrangements without departing from the scope of the present invention. These arrangements may include, by way of non-limiting example only, hydraulic or pneumatic actuators, and belt or chain drives.

Still referring to FIGS. 12A and 12B, barrel 80 may be mounted on support 120 by springs 131 operative to resiliently support barrel 80, lessening impact forces on the arrangement during firing. Wire loom 132 comprises a plurality of control wires, such as for the on/off control of EM coils 88. The wires of loom 132 may be arranged generally around the axis of rotation of barrel 80 and comprise sufficient length such that maximum elevation angle articulation is provided, while strain on wiring loom 132 is minimized as barrel 80 is moved through various elevation angles.

Referring to FIGS. 13-14B, azimuth angle control of turret 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown and described. Base 112 may be arranged within a corresponding opening in an outer mounting frame 130. Mounting frame 130 may comprise, for example, a purpose-built platform, or the deck of a sea vessel, or vehicle configured to receive base 112 of the turret 100 as shown in FIG. 13. In one embodiment, azimuth control of barrel 80 may be accomplished by rotating base 112 with respect to mounting frame 130. This rotation may be achieved by a drive motor and gear arrangement. Referring generally to FIGS. 13 and 14A, a toothed-gear 132 may be arranged on an internal surface of mounting structure 130, and operative to engage with a pinion gear 134 attached to the output shaft of a drive motor 116. In this way, rotation of drive motor 116 may be operative to rotate base 112 with respect to mounting structure 130. Motor 116 may comprise an internal or external brake to secure the platform with respect to the mounting structure, ensuring accurate control of the orientation of barrel 80.

Base 112 may be rotatably supported on a bearing surface 136 arranged between the bottom of base 112 and a load-bearing portion of mounting structure 130. Bearing surface 136 may comprise, by way of example only, a thrust bearing, or other bearing types operative to support and allow for rotation of base 112 with respect to mounting structure 130. In one embodiment of the present invention support may be provided by an EM-based arrangement, such as a magnetic levitation system operative to elevate base 112 relative to mounting structure 130. In this embodiment, a linear motor, such as at least one propulsion coil, may be arranged on base 112 to impart a rotational force thereon with respect to support structure 130. In this way, motor 116 may be eliminated, and the EM levitation system used to both support and rotate base 112 relative to mounting structure 130.

Arranged below base 112 and mounting structure 130 may be a cavity 138 configured to house wiring loom 132 comprising the control wires or cables to the launch system. In one embodiment of the present invention, cavity 138 may comprise an annular cavity arranged radially outward of the center of base 112. The length of the wires arranged within cavity 130 should be sufficient to permit large changes of azimuth angle by turret 100 (see FIGS. 14A and 14B) without tensioning or otherwise straining.

FIGS. 15 and 16A-16B illustrate the functional steps of an exemplary firing operation of a system according to embodiments of the present invention. Referring generally to FIGS. 15 and 16A, in step F0, extending arm 38 is operative to deliver a munition 32 from magazine 30 to a shared loading, or preload area 33. Generally at the same time, a hatch of turret 100 may be opened (F2A) and base 112 rotated into a desired azimuth position (F3A). In step F1, pusher round 50 may be activated, and the next munition 32 moved into place at the end of magazine 30. Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16B, in step F4, barrel 80 may be loaded as described above with respect to FIGS. 7A-11B. As loading mechanism 60 is retracted (step F5), barrel 80 may be slewed to a desired angular elevation angle (step F6A) using the above-described arrangement of FIGS. 12A-12B. At step F7, a desired launch package is executed, and the weapon fired from barrel 80. While the weapon is fired, extending arm 38 may be operative to load the next munition 32 into loading area 33, thereby repeating step F0. In step F6B, barrel 80 may be returned to an elevation angle suitable for loading the next munition 32, and munition 32 loaded as set forth above with respect to step F4, the next munition advanced in magazine 30 (step F0), base 112 stewed to the next desired azimuth angle (step 3B), and the weapon fired. This overlapped operation of the various loading and positioning mechanisms provides for increased firing rates over systems of the prior art (e.g. the ability to launch at least one round per second). At the end of a desired firing sequence, the hatch of turret 100 may be closed (step F2B), and the base rotated to a default position (step F3C).

While the foregoing munitions handling system may be used with any type of open-breech firing arrangement, it is envisioned that embodiments of the present invention may be particularly useful with systems using electromagnetic (EM) based propulsion. Moreover, the ability of the system to selectively and rapidly fire a large number of varying types of munitions (e.g. at least five) is advantageous not only for firing offensive munitions, but also for use with a countermeasure launcher, wherein a high firing rate, as well as munition diversity, may be critical to successfully defending against hostile weapons.

While the foregoing invention has been described with reference to the above-described embodiment, various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. Accordingly, all such modifications and changes are considered to be within the scope of the appended claims. Accordingly, the specification and the drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense. The accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, show by way of illustration, and not of limitation, specific embodiments in which the subject matter may be practiced. The embodiments illustrated are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the teachings disclosed herein. Other embodiments may be utilized and derived therefrom, such that structural and logical substitutions and changes may be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure. This Detailed Description, therefore, is not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of various embodiments is defined only by the appended claims, along with the full range of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

Such embodiments of the inventive subject matter may be referred to herein, individually and/or collectively, by the term “invention” merely for convenience and without intending to voluntarily limit the scope of this application to any single invention or inventive concept if more than one is in fact disclosed. Thus, although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it should be appreciated that any arrangement calculated to achieve the same purpose may be substituted for the specific embodiments shown. This disclosure is intended to cover any and all adaptations of variations of various embodiments. Combinations of the above embodiments, and other embodiments not specifically described herein, will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. 

1. A magazine-fed system comprising: a plurality of magazines each having a first end and a second end arranged about a central loading area, each magazine in communication with a corresponding first loading mechanism configured to provide a munition arranged within at least one of the plurality of magazines to the central loading area, and a second loading mechanism configured to provide a munition arranged within the central loading area to a barrel of the system.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the second loading mechanism and the plurality of magazines are rotatable with respect to the central loading area.
 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the first loading mechanism comprises at least one linear actuator configured to provide a munition from the second end of a corresponding magazine to the central loading area.
 4. The system of claim 3, wherein a first capturing mechanism is coupled to a movable end of the at least one actuator and the displacement of the movable end of the at least one actuator is operative to bias the first capturing mechanism, securing a munition to the at least one actuator.
 5. The system of claim 1, wherein the magazine comprises a pusher round operative to displace a munition arranged within a magazine into a position for securing with the first loading mechanism.
 6. The system of claim 5, wherein the pusher round comprises an internal drive motor operative to displace the pusher round through the magazine.
 7. The system of claim 6, wherein the magazine comprises a geared rack configured to engage with a pinion coupled to the output shaft of the drive motor.
 8. The system of claim 5, wherein the magazine comprises at least one anti-rotation surface configured to prevent the rotation of the pusher round within the magazine.
 9. The system of claim 5, wherein the pusher round comprises a pressure sensor arranged on a surface thereof.
 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the second loading mechanism comprises an engaging mechanism moveable between a first position for engaging with a munition, and a second position for loading the munition into the barrel.
 11. The system of claim 10, wherein the engaging mechanism comprises a locking surface configured to mate with a corresponding first locking mechanism arranged on the munition.
 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the locking surface comprises an annular recess.
 13. The system of claim 11, wherein the engaging mechanism comprises a threaded element moveable with respect to the locking surface.
 14. The system of claim 13, wherein the threaded element is configured to bias the first locking mechanism into an unlocked position, allowing for the retraction of the second engaging mechanism from the munition.
 15. The system of claim 1, wherein the barrel comprises a second locking mechanism moveable from a first unlocked position to a second locked position and configured to retain the munition within the barrel.
 16. The system of claim 15, wherein the second locking mechanism is biased to the locked position.
 17. The system of claim 1, wherein the barrel comprises at least one electromagnetic coil configured to generate an electromagnetic field operative to selectively control a third locking mechanism configured to secure the munition within the barrel.
 18. The system of claim 1, wherein the barrel is pivotally connected to a turret for selectively altering the elevation angle of the barrel by a first motor operative to drive a rack and pinion arrangement.
 19. The system of claim 18, wherein the turret is operative to alter the elevation angle of the barrel at least 180 degrees.
 20. The system of claim 18, wherein the barrel is mounted to a rotatable turret for selectively altering the azimuth angle of the barrel, the turret rotated by a second motor operative to drive a second rack and pinion arrangement.
 21. A magazine for storing at least one munition comprising: a first opening configured to receive a munition; a second opening, and a motorized pusher round operative to displace a munition arranged within the magazine in a direction from the first opening toward the second opening.
 22. The magazine of claim 21, wherein the pusher round comprises an internal drive motor.
 23. The magazine of claim 22, wherein the magazine comprises a geared rack configured to engage with at least one pinion gear coupled to the drive motor.
 24. The magazine of claim 22, wherein the magazine comprises two geared racks arranged proximate a top and bottom of the magazine respectively, and configured to engage with first and second pinion gears coupled to the drive motor.
 25. The magazine of claim 22, wherein the drive motor is operative to displace the pusher round in a direction toward the second opening, and in a direction away from the second opening.
 26. The magazine of claim 25, wherein the pusher round is configured to move into a first loading position on a side of the first opening opposite the second opening.
 27. The magazine of claim 21, wherein the pusher round comprises a pressure sensor arranged on a surface thereof.
 28. The magazine of claim 27, wherein the pressure sensor is operatively connected to a processor for detecting at least one of the presence of a munition adjacent to the pusher round and a fault condition.
 29. The magazine of claim 21, further comprising a mechanically actuated stop arrange proximate the second opening of the magazine, the stop configured to arrest the movement of the munitions in a direction toward the second opening.
 30. The magazine of claim 21, further comprising at least one anti-rotation surface configured to prevent the rotation of the pusher round with respect to the magazine.
 31. A munition loading device for a magazine-fed launch system comprising: a first capturing mechanism; a second capturing mechanism pivotally attached to the first capturing mechanism, and at least one linear actuator operative to secure a munition between the first and second capturing mechanisms.
 32. The device of claim 31, further comprising a bell crank coupled to the at least one linear actuator and the second capturing mechanism for translating a linear motion of the actuator for at least one of securing and releasing a munition between the first and second capturing mechanisms.
 33. The device of claim 31, wherein the first capturing mechanism is arranged proximate an exit opening of a magazine configured to store munitions.
 34. A munition loading device for an open-breech launch system comprising: a engaging mechanism configured to selectively fasten to a portion of a munition, the mechanism comprising a locking surface for mating with a complementary locking assembly of a munition; a drive assembly configured to displace the engaging mechanism between a first position for fastening to a munition, and a second position for arranging the munition within a barrel of a launch system.
 35. The system of claim 34, wherein the locking surface comprises an annular recess.
 36. The system of claim 34, wherein the engaging mechanism comprises a threaded element moveable relative to the locking surface.
 37. The system of claim 36, wherein the threaded element is configured to move between a locked position, wherein the locking assembly of the munition is engaged with the locking surface of the engaging mechanism, and an unlocked position, wherein the threaded element is configured to disengage the locking assembly from the locking surface, allowing for the retraction of the second engaging mechanism from the munition.
 38. A method of operating a magazine-fed launch system comprising: loading munitions into a first opening arranged proximate a first end of each of a plurality of magazines, each of the magazines having a second opening proximate a second end arranged around a shared load area; moving a selected munition from the second opening of one of the plurality of magazines to the shared load area, and loading the selected munition from the shared load area to a barrel of the launch system. 